It is not uncommon for football players to miss training sessions and even matches due to personal reasons. Even at FC Barcelona, this is an occurrence that can happen from time to time. The latest player to need such an absence was Frenkie de Jong.
Previously, the player missed a training session on Thursday and has been irregular in terms of training this week due to the situation of the birth of his second child. Fortunately for the Dutchman, he is now a father for the second time, and he welcomed his newborn into the world just recently.
De Jong marks his return to training
BARCELONA, SPAIN - NOVEMBER 30: Frenkie de Jong of FC Barcelona looks on as he warms up prior to the LaLiga match between FC Barcelona and UD Las Palmas at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on November 30, 2024 in Barcelona, Spain.
Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images
Moreover, as highlighted by SPORT, the 28-year-old midfielder recently rejoined training as well, following a tunnel of slaps from his teammates. However, instead of joining the group, he did some individual work.
While he should be fit and available to feature against Levante in the next La Liga game, the coaching staff reportedly wanted him to make up for the training that he had missed recently.
Either way, his availability should not be a problem, but his presence in the starting eleven might be something that Hansi Flick is yet to decide upon.
Positive update on the Barcelona star’s renewal
BARCELONA, SPAIN - JANUARY 29: Frenkie De Jong of FC Barcelona looks on during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD8 match between FC Barcelona and Atalanta BC at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on January 29, 2025 in Barcelona, Spain.
Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images
As for recent updates regarding De Jong’s renewal, things seem to be on the right track. Now with a new agent, the Dutchman’s renewal talks are more likely to advance, and some initial progress has already been made as well.